Yankees Make a Surprising Roster Move Before Dodgers Series Finale

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Kristie Ackert | Last updated Jun 1, 2025 3:50 PM ET

In a move to bolster their bullpen after a taxing loss on Saturday night, the New York Yankees have recalled veteran right-hander Carlos Carrasco from Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre, the YES Network's Jacke Curry reported.

Carrasco is expected to be available for relief duties during Sunday night's series finale against the Los Angeles Dodgers at Dodger Stadium.

The Yankees' bullpen was leaned on heavily in Saturday's 18–2 loss to the Dodgers. The Yankees used six relievers plus a position player to get through 6 2/3 innings Saturday. Sunday's scheduled starter, Ryan Yarbrough, is a converted starter who has averaged five innings per start.

So, that made it necessary to bring in a fresh arm just to cover themselves for Sunday night's game. Carrasco, 38, began the season with the Yankees but was designated for assignment on May 6 after posting a 5.91 ERA over 32 innings.

He cleared waivers and was outrighted to Triple-A, where he has been waiting as an insurance arm for the Yankees. Clayton Beeter and Allan Winans, two other logical options to get the call, had already pitched on Saturday before the Yankees had to make the call for help.

Carrasco's time in the Yankees' rotation was not great, but he is willing and able to pitch out of the bullpen. His experience and versatility could be valuable in this situation, where the Yankees just need to leave Los Angeles with their health intact.

The Yankees did not announce a corresponding move to make room on the 26-man roster.

In an unrelated roster move, the Yankees had right-hander Jake Woodford opt out of his minor league deal. According to a report from MLB Trade Rumors' Steve Adams, he becomes a free agent.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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